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How do I guides

Listing page 2

A selection of easy read guides to help you navigate the criminal justice system in England and Wales.


How do I send money to someone in prison  Task

You can use the Ministry of Justice online service to make a payment by Visa, Mastercard or Maestro debit card. Money usually takes less than 3 working days to reach a prisoner’s account, but it may take longer.


I have been referred to MAPPA, what now?  Task

If you have specific support needs, being referred to MAPPA can help you find the support you need.


I have been referred to the Disclosure and Barring Service, what does this mean?  Task

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) maintains lists of people that are barred from work involving children or vulnerable adults, also called ‘regulated activity’.  


I have been unsuccessful in my job application due to a failed DBS or CRB check – now what?  Task

A ‘disclosure and barring service’ (DBS) check is a list of your official history with the law (your criminal record). The DBS check used to be called the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. 


I’m a Schedule One offender, what does this mean?  Task

A Schedule One offender is a person convicted of one of the crimes listed in the Children and Young Persons Act 1933. However, the term Schedule One offender has now been replaced with the term ‘person posing a risk to children’.


I’m a whistleblower, where can I go for help or support?  Task

A whistleblower is someone who reports wrongdoing in relation to their place of work. The wrongdoing must be in the public interest which means that it must have an impact on other people, for example, the general public. 


I’m about to be released from prison – what do I need to know?  Task

There are things you can do to help get ready for release from prison, including thinking about housing, benefits and who can help you in the community. Your Offender Supervisor can help you as you plan for your release. 


I’m scared of going to prison – what is it like?  Task

When you start your sentence, you will go through a reception process where you will be interviewed, given a prison number and a release date, and searched to check you are not hiding anything that you should not have. 


I’ve been arrested. What are my rights?  Task

If you’ve been arrested, you could be held in police custody which means you could be searched and questioned at a police station. The police custody officer will explain your rights. 


I’ve been charged. What happens now?  Task

If you have been charged this means that you have been officially accused of a crime. You will be given a ‘charge sheet’. The charge sheet will tell you about the crime you have been accused of.